One of the players most closely watched by Carlos Mendoza in the Mets’ camp is Bo Bichette. He works more closely and more strictly with him because he wants him to be the one to take over the starting third base job.
Expectations for the Blue Jays’ newcomer are focused on his power at the plate, but the manager has other goals for the new addition. In addition to taking advantage of him offensively, he wants him to be defensively key.Mendoza knows that Bichette is not used to playing third base, so he is patient for him to adapt to that position. What he has seen so far in camp has him very satisfied, because the player is adapting faster than planned to that position.
I thought he did well. As far as positioning, he was attentive…
The manager said he was surprised by Bo’s evolution. As the leader of the team, Mendoza told the player himself that he is on the right track and has impressed with his ability to play third base. In this way, he injects confidence and security to strengthen the mental aspect and thus eliminate the nerves that he may have for the challenge of covering that area.
Bo Bichette not locked in at third base
Carlos Mendoza understands that Bo Bichette has played primarily as a shortstop, one of the most demanding defensive positions in the game, so he is not unaware of the rigors and pressures required to take on defensive roles.
However, the manager continues to evaluate which of his players he will designate as the starting third baseman. With Bichette, there are four options. The other three are:
- Mark Vientos
- Ronny Mauricio
- Jorge Polanco
Craig Kimbrel captivates Carlos Mendoza
Despite being a player on the verge of retirement, Mendoza noticed him in great shape and strong enough to be a key part of the rotations in New York during the season. Contrary to what many may think, including those fans who label him as “burned out”, Kimbrel can be one of the productive aces up the sleeve for the Mets on the mound.
Carlos Mendoza was asked what has stood out to him about Craig at the start of camp. After watching him closely, the team manager noticed that, unlike other veterans, the pitcher carries himself as if it were his first day as a rookie professional.
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